Innovating Fare Collection: Tagless Fare System Pilot in Seoul Metro

Near the bridge at Oksu Station, a pilot site for Seoul Metro’s tagless fare system.

Seoul Metro is one of the busiest subway systems in the world, carrying an average of 6.6 million passengers daily on its core Lines 1–8 — nearly twice the ridership of New York City’s subway, which serves about 3.4 million riders per day. Seoul's population density is 45,000 people per square mile, compared with New York’s 29,000 people per square mile. Despite this high volume, Seoul Metro operates 296 stations, fewer than New York’s 472, highlighting the system’s robustness and throughput in a compact urban network. This transit-dependent environment creates an ideal setting for innovative solutions that enhance passenger flow, accessibility, and convenience.

Overview of Seoul Metro System, provided by Seoul Metro

STraffic has deployed Korea’s first tagless fare collection system in Seoul Metro, marking a major advancement in the country’s transit technology. The system enables passengers to pass through fare gates without tapping a card or scanning a ticket, using Ultra-Wideband (UWB) and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication for completely hands-free fare payment. This implementation represents a significant step toward smarter, more accessible, and more efficient urban mobility.

Designed with accessibility and user convenience in mind, the system improves travel for:

• Passengers using wheelchairs or with limited mobility

• Travelers carrying luggage or strollers

• Situations where accessing a card or phone is difficult

Throughput per Minute

• UWB tagless gates: 50 people per minute

• Bluetooth tagless gates: 40 people per minute

The pilot results highlight the tagless system’s ability to process passengers quickly and reliably while ensuring a seamless, hands-free experience.

A six-month pilot program began in June 2024, with 10 gates installed across four stations. Following successful verification, the system is planned to expand to additional Seoul Metro stations next year.

The deployment highlights STraffic’s role in advancing next-generation fare collection solutions through precise, high-performance wireless technology. By integrating UWB’s accuracy with BLE’s reliability, the company is redefining the passenger experience and setting new standards for smart, inclusive transit systems. This project demonstrates how innovation in fare technology can directly enhance accessibility, efficiency, and the overall quality of public transportation.